Lionel transformers

I have six old ZW's and have no problem running anything, new or old.

I have an in-line fast blow fuse protecting each loop for the new stuff.

It really depends upon your needs, but between a V and KW, I would generally say the KW is "better" for the casual operator. The KW has 190W vs 150W and has a whistle/direction controls built in. However, on the flip side, the KW has fixed voltages of limited use (6 or 20VAC). The V has 4 variable outputs that can be used for anything, trains or accessories that can be dialed in.

Like @NYC 428, I have a bank of classic ZWs that power my layout.

Why not just go for a ZW.  Current pricing for a good used one with new rollers and power cord are in the $90 to $110 range.  For a little more, you can probably find one with new rollers, power cord, fast trip circuit breaker, and whistle controller replacement.  If you can get to a train show, dealers are usually quite willing to negotiate on the price as lugging them back and forth is a pain (literally).

A number of years ago they were in the $275-$325 range and even up to $450 for something almost new in a crisp box.  Those days are long over and probably not coming back. 

The 275 watts should give you power for anything you need and cost only a little more than a KW.

Count me among the ZW fans.  I use two ZW's and a VW.  I don't think VW's are common.  Looks just like a ZW.  I've tried many postwar and modern transformers.  I suggest you buy a "rebuilt" ZW.

Bill

Before we totally go off the rails on the ZW (which I use many extensively), remember the specific ask was comparing and contrasting a V with a KW.

I would be looking at a Z transformer for prewar use.  Most prewar Lionel was designed for higher voltages than what came after WWII.  So some engines will not be totally happy using a ZW or postwar transformer, especially if your running standard gauge or early prewar O.   Now late prewar engines like a 226e, 225e ect will do just fine on a postwar transformer.   But for true prewar power a V or Z is the king of the hill, much like the ZW was the king of the postwar era.   AD

@artfull dodger posted:

some engines will not be totally happy using a ZW or postwar transformer, especially if your running standard gauge or early prewar O.

If they don't operate well on the ~20VAC a ZW or similar can crank out, they need a good servicing or better power distribution - not more power.

But again, we are getting further away from the V vs KW discussion. Unless @Jeffery Boat gets back to us with any more specifics, all we are doing is running amok with wild presumptions.

Thank you guys for all the great info. After weighing in all the pros and cons, I'm going to go for a ZW.

It's more money, but you get what you pay for.

Keep those trains running.

Jeff

@lionelflyer posted:

The 275 watts should give you power for anything you need and cost only a little more than a KW.

I agree with the ZW as the best choice, but I'd be cautious about quoting the 275W figure.  That's the input power to the ZW, not the output power.  The postwar ZW really delivers more like 220-225 watts at full throttle, and less wattage at lower throttle settings.

Also, for what it's worth, the usually cheaper 250 watt ZW puts has an output voltage ranging from 7-21 volts as opposed to later 275 ZWs, which are 6.5-20 volts.

For command control I don't use any postwar or modern "step-down"?(?) transformers- aka transformers with handles. I use straight bricks for my TPCs...

I do use the post war transformers for accessories- Lionel type Z and Lionel 250w ZW. Originally used a Kw, then a type v, finally settled on a refurbished Z. Noticable difference between the Z and V